Mumbai, August 23, 2024 – The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has called for a statewide Maharashtra Bandh on August 24 in protest against the alleged sexual assault of two young girls at a school in Badlapur, Thane district. The decision, supported by the Congress, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (SP) headed by Sharad Pawar, was announced following a meeting in Mumbai. The bandh is a response to the recent arrest of a school attendant accused of sexually abusing two kindergarten students.
Schools and Colleges: The Maharashtra government has not issued any notification regarding the closure of schools on August 24. As a result, schools and colleges in Mumbai and across the state are expected to operate as usual. However, institutions that typically close on Saturdays will remain shut.
Public Transport: Despite the bandh, the state government has not endorsed it, and no official notification has been issued regarding the closure of public transport. Buses and metro services in Mumbai are expected to function as normal, providing regular services to commuters.
Banks: Banks will be closed on August 24, but this is due to it being the fourth Saturday of the month, in line with the RBI’s bank holiday guidelines, and not because of the Maharashtra Bandh.
The bandh is in response to growing concerns about the safety of girls in schools following the Badlapur incident. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray questioned the safety of girls in educational institutions, echoing the sentiment behind the bandh.
Authorities are urging citizens to stay informed and plan their day accordingly, as the bandh may affect daily routines despite the absence of official support from the state government.
Comments